In Brief:

• An attractively finished 1962 Sunbeam Rapier Series IIA
• Finished in grey with contrasting red side flash, leather interior and hood
• Interesting history, with celebrity connections and show appearances
• Road ready and useable, with an engaging past

Auctioneer's Notes:

A very attractive 1962 Sunbeam Rapier, presented in grey with a contrasting red side flash and red interior. The Vendor advises that the car retains its original engine, hood, interior trim and much of its original brightwork. The period styling, modest tail fins, chrome detailing and richly finished dashboard give the Rapier plenty of character, while the photographs show a particularly smart and distinctive example.

Maintenance & Condition:

The Vendor reports that the car was returned to the road by a previous owner after a period in storage and was subsequently shown at a number of local events. It retains its original folding hood, which is accompanied by the original workshop manual containing operating instructions for the roof mechanism. The car presents well overall, with a smart exterior, attractive red cabin and well-preserved period fittings.

History:

The Vendor advises that some history remains from the original owner. The car was originally based in Sunderland, where it was reportedly used as a private-hire function car. During the 1980s it is also said to have been used in connection with a video or photographic shoot involving Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. The original owner later moved from Sunderland to Suffolk, taking the Sunbeam with them, where it was garaged for a number of years. It was subsequently purchased by another owner who recommissioned it, returned it to the road and displayed it at local shows. An original workshop manual is included with the car.

The Model:

The Series IIIA Rapier was one of the more stylish sporting offerings from the Rootes Group during the early 1960s, combining elegant transatlantic-influenced styling with practical British engineering. Power came from a 1,592cc four-cylinder engine with twin carburettors, coupled to a four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. Its distinctive profile, wraparound glass, subtle tail fins and extensive chrome trim gave the Rapier a considerably more upmarket appearance than many contemporary family cars. Inside, the timber-effect dashboard, comprehensive instrumentation and sporting seating helped reinforce its position as a refined yet usable sporting model.

Sale Insight:

With its appealing colour combination, reportedly original engine, hood and trim, interesting long-term history and unusual period association with Dave Stewart, this Rapier has considerably more character than the average surviving example. An attractive and eminently usable 1960s classic with an engaging story behind it.

Estimate:
£7,500 - £8,500